GVBOT statement on provincial housing plan

For Immediate Release
Monday, Apr. 3, 2023

VANCOUVER, B.C. — Greater Vancouver Board of Trade President and CEO, Bridgitte Anderson, has issued a statement in response to the B.C. government’s provincial housing plan Homes for People.

"With historic population growth and tens of thousands of newcomers coming to our region, our housing challenges are bound to get worse unless we urgently increase the supply of housing. A strong majority of our Members (83%) are concerned about the impact of the cost of housing in Greater Vancouver on their ability to recruit or retain employees. 

There are some encouraging initiatives within the new Housing Action Plan. Province-wide legislation to enable more units on a single lot is a positive step forward. We encourage all levels of government to work collaboratively and quickly to bring this to fruition.

Initiatives to speed up permitting and approvals and enact digital permitting are also welcome. A significant challenge to building the housing we need is the lengthy permitting processes, which can often take five to seven years in the City of Vancouver. We also appreciate efforts to close encampments and better support people experiencing homelessness.

Access to housing options is critical to a well-functioning economy. We appreciate the government’s focus and dedication and look forward to collaborating to build more homes faster.”

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About the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade:

Since its inception in 1887, the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade has been recognized as Western Canada's leading business association, engaging our members to inform public policy at all levels of government and empowering them to succeed and prosper in the global economy. With a Membership whose employees comprise one-third of B.C.'s workforce, we are the largest business association between Victoria and Toronto. We leverage this collective strength, facilitating networking opportunities, and providing professional development through unique programs. In addition, we operate one of the largest events platforms in the country, providing a stage for national and international thought leaders to enlighten B.C.'s business leaders.

Media contact:

Victor Young
Communications Manager
Greater Vancouver Board of Trade 604-640-5450 || media@boardoftrade.com